'Will hunt...America's enemies down': New FBI chief Kash Patel's 'warning'
What's the story
Kash Patel was confirmed as the new director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) by a narrow Senate vote on Thursday. The confirmation was passed by a 51-49 split, with all Senate Democrats and two Republican senators, Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins, voting against his nomination. In his first statement after confirmation, Patel thanked President Donald Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi for their support.
Director's pledge
Patel's commitment to a transparent and accountable FBI
He promised to make the FBI "transparent, accountable, and committed to justice," admitting that politicalization has eroded public trust in the justice system. "The politicization of our justice system has eroded public trust—but that ends today," he said. The once fierce critic of the FBI promised to turn the agency into an agency Americans can be proud of.
Rebuilding trust
Patel's vow to rebuild public trust in FBI
Patel also issued a strong warning to those planning to hurt Americans. "And to those who seek to harm Americans—consider this your warning. We will hunt you down in every corner of this planet," he wrote on X. His confirmation comes amid the FBI facing criticism over probes into the January 6 Capitol riot and recent ousters of senior officials.
Director's profile
Patel's background and criticism from Democrats
He first drew Trump's attention when, as a staffer on the Republican-led House Intelligence Committee, he assisted in the writing of a memo sharply criticizing the FBI's investigation into ties between Russia and Trump's 2016 campaign. Patel later joined Trump's government as a counterterrorism officer at the National Security Council and chief of staff for the Defense Department.
Leadership transition
Patel replaces Wray as FBI director
Patel will replace Christopher Wray, who resigned prior to Trump's return to office. As director, Patel will be on a 10-year term designed to keep the agency independent. Democrats characterized Patel as a dangerous loyalist who would abuse the FBI's law enforcement authorities at a time when the country is under increasing threat from China and international terrorism.